At last, after what seems like an age (it practically is an age; four years is an entire generation in gaming!), the Atari VCS console is ready for release. Here's what to expect on launch day.
The New Atari VCS Will Launch June 2021
So, gamers who have been waiting patiently for Atari's new console computer—the Atari VCS—can rejoice today, as the creator of some of history's most popular home consoles has proclaimed the release of the new device.
🥳 ANNOUNCEMENT 🥳
— Atari VCS (@TheAtari_VCS) June 2, 2021
The Atari VCS will be available for purchase online at @BestBuy, @microcenter, @GameStop, and the official Atari VCS website on June 15, 2021!
Mark your calendars 📅✍️
Get the full scoop on @gameinformer: https://t.co/lgwuJI5vBO
As of June 15 2021, you can purchase Atari's awesome VCS console. It will be available via the official Atari VCS website, Best Buy, Micro Center, and GameStop, with a price point of $299 applied to the base Atari VCS Onyx edition (which is all black).
This writer has one (review incoming soon) and can tell you, it is an excellent device.
What Do You Get With the Atari VCS at Launch?
There are several combinations available to you that vary both in price and what you get with the device.
As mentioned, the all-black Onyx version of the console is available for $299. The console comes as a standalone unit, meaning that you are going to need to buy at least one controller to play your games.
You can also purchase the console in bundles, which cost $399. These bundles feature either the Onyx or the Black Walnut version of the console (the Black Walnut version has wood-effect paneling to the front, mirroring the original VCS, which post-1982 became known as the 2600), along with one of each controller type.
"Controller type?" you say? Well, yes. You can get two different controllers for the Atari VCS. Both cost $59 separately, and PowerA has produced both. You'll probably know PowerA as it manufactures third-party controllers for the Nintendo Switch as well.
So, what are the controllers? You can get the Atari Modern Controller; a joypad which will have a familiar setup if you're used to playing Xbox or using a Switch Pro controller. You can also get a more traditional Atari Classic Joystick, which looks much like the model shipped with the original VCS/2600.
As mentioned, both controllers are $59 separate, so you'll save yourself $20 if you buy the console bundles.
Will There Be Any Launch Exclusives?
Absolutely! Buying your console from Best Buy or GameStop will also net you one of Atari's cool speaker hats. As you might expect, these are hats... with speakers in the peak. There are two available. Both of them are caps and you can get it in either blue or charcoal, with a big Atari Fuji up front.
If you buy your console from Micro Center or the Atari VCS website, you get a free copy of Missile Command: Recharged (which is an excellent, up-to-date version of Missile Command, complete with massive explosions and lots of neon), ready to play when you unbox your device.
Are You Ready for Atari VCS?
We've never been readier. Having waited patiently for the console's release, it is encouraging to see that Atari VCS has weathered the storm that last year's COVID crisis brought with it.
Now all you need to do is get your hands on one when June 15 rolls around!
